So get out from behind your computer screen and off the Internet to gather support from friends, family and the community. In fact, you're more likely to find a job opening and secure an interview through a personal connection than you are through a job site. What can you do to add a social element to your job hunt that will lift your spirits, increase your chances for success, and even serve to help others?

Start a Meetup group

Meetup (meetup.com) believes that "people can change their personal world "» by organizing themselves into groups that are powerful enough to make a difference." Take the initiative to bring job hunters together to share anecdotes, tips, resources general encouragement and even potential opportunities for one another. You can meet at the library or for coffee at a diner. Remember this key networking rule: Give before you receive.

Put together an Advisory Board: The August 2014 issue of Success Magazine (recommended highly for inspiration and concrete ideas for action) suggests that entrepreneurs do just that to help their business grow. You are the chief executive officer of "You, Inc.," so take their advice to surround yourself with smart people. "Advisors bring in expertise, fresh ideas, honest feedback and a sounding board in times of challenge." Make a list of people you know and admire, and people in your target field "» and then ask them if they'd be willing to share their wisdom.

Be a joiner

Join a professional group to stay abreast of your industry's news and trends. Visit job-hunt.org/associations.shtml for the Directory of Professional and Industry Associations and Societies. Seven out of 10 people in the U.S. belong to at least one organization. Hot leads can come from anyone — you just need to get out there.

Read "Highly Effective Networking: Meet the Right People and Get a Good Job" by Orville Pierson. Might this be a good time to join your child's PTA? Or maybe coach a Little League team? How about doing volunteer work? Sign up for a committee at your church. You can be a contributing member of our community and give yourself maximum exposure to people who can help you at the same time.

Teach, demonstrate and speak: Are you an expert, or particularly talented at something? Can you lead a nature walk? Are you an amateur baker or painter? A computer geek? Consider approaching a local business and asking if you can do a demonstration related to their venue. It will bring in additional business for them and give you a chance to meet people under favorable conditions. Are you a confident public speaker? Then get on the library's calendar of events and give a presentation. If you're an intrepid spirit, make a YouTube video.

Your goal is to make you more visible. Do not isolate yourself. Success Magazine suggests you gather 10 interesting facts about your passion: an interesting statistic, an anecdote or a surprising breakthrough to tantalize people. Go to trade shows, networking events and social gatherings. Let everyone know what you're looking for and how you can help them.

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